If the nature of the medicine is known, the remover can be chosen accordingly. If the nature of the medicine stain is not known, it is necessary to try various agents until one is found which serves the purpose.

Each of the following agents is satisfactory in removing some medicine stains:

1. Boiling water, poured on the stain from a considerable height, as for fruit stains (p. 291).

2. Soap and water, as in ordinary laundering.

3. Acids, such as hydrochloric or oxalic. Dilute solutions of these acids sometimes are useful for stains containing metallic salts.

4. Alcohol. Sponge the stain with alcohol or soak it in alcohol.

5. Javelle water. This agent sometimes will bleach a stain that resists treatment by other means.